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.38 Special Revolver |
What would this bill do?
In a nutshell, if you live in a state that issues (concealed) handgun carry permits/licenses, and have a valid one, it would be valid in all states and Washington, D.C. If you live in a state that doesn't issue or require permits*, your driver's license would validate your legal ability to carry in all states plus the District.
Another provision of the bill would open up areas under the jurisdiction of
- the National Park System
- the National Wildlife Refuge System
- the Bureau of Land Management
- the Army Corps of Engineers
- the Bureau of Reclamation
I am sorry to see it doesn't include Post Offices and property administered by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)**.
Included in the bill are provisions for recovery of damages-
- When a person successfully asserts this section as a defense in a criminal proceeding, the court shall award the prevailing defendant a reasonable attorney’s fee.
- A person who is deprived of any right, privilege, or immunity secured by this section . . . may bring an action in any appropriate court . . . The court shall award a plaintiff prevailing in an action . . . damages . . . including a reasonable attorney’s fee.
OK, some will argue that this should be the left to the states, and support their argument with the Tenth Amendment. I would counter with asserting that the Second Amendment is equally valid, and it is time for states such as New Jersey to cease jailing citizens from other states for the othewise exercising the otherwise benign natural right to carry a defensive weapon. Why should states continue to negate that right guaranteed by Second Amendment?
What's next?
Get your Representative's and Senator's local and Washington numbers on speed dial. Be prepared to pepper them with calls and emails.
*"does not prohibit the carrying of concealed firearms by residents of the State for lawful purposes."
**. . . although President Trump could take care of this January 20.